Covid laryngitis: how long does it last?

Laryngitis is inflammation around the voice box. A viral illness can make the vocal folds swollen, causing a hoarse, weak, breathy or lost voice, with throat irritation or a dry cough. A common cold can produce a similar pattern. Acid reflux, voice overuse, smoke and other irritants may prolong symptoms after the infection itself has eased.

Recovery is not identical for everyone. Voice strain while the tissues are irritated can make hoarseness linger, so note whether your voice is steadily improving, unchanged, or worsening.

Rest your voice by speaking less and at a comfortable volume; whispering can also strain the voice. Sip fluids, avoid smoking and smoky air, and use gentle humidity if it feels soothing. Avoid repeated throat-clearing and give yourself time to recover before prolonged speaking or singing. A clinician can assess reflux, infection or another cause if symptoms do not follow an improving course.

Get emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, noisy breathing, blue lips, confusion, or inability to swallow saliva. Arrange prompt review for worsening throat pain, dehydration, coughing blood, or a voice that deteriorates rather than improves. Book a GP Consultation if hoarseness persists, repeatedly returns, affects work, or occurs without a clear infection.

Does my voice change fit laryngitis, reflux, or another condition? How should I protect my voice at work? At what point should persistent hoarseness be examined? Do I need referral if my voice does not return?